SE Illinois News

Southern Illinois Republican lawmakers have called for changes to inmate mail protocols following reports of exposure to drugs and other unknown substances in state prison facilities. The group, including State Senator Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg), State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro), State Representative Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis), State Representative Paul Jacobs (R-Pomona), State Representative David Friess (R-Red Bud), and State Representative Dave Severin (R-Benton), has urged the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) to temporarily halt mail processing services within correctional facilities.

The delegation made their request through a joint letter sent on September 23. They issued a statement emphasizing the importance of safety in prisons: “The safety of both staff and inmates in our prisons must be our top priority. However, actions speak louder than words, and we refuse to stand by while employees of our correctional facilities continue to be exposed to dangerous threats. Given the ongoing risks posed by contaminated mail, we have formally requested that the Director of IDOC temporarily suspend non-legal mail processing services until appropriate safety protocols are established. IDOC must prioritize the well-being of both correctional officers and inmates. We will continue to stand in support of our officers and work with our fellow lawmakers to help put an end to staff and inmates being exposed to unnecessary risks.”

The lawmakers seek this suspension until proper protocols and resources are implemented to prevent future incidents.

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